Bahía Drake · Puntarenas · Costa Rica
Playa Cocalito Norte
You reach it by panga or on foot along a low-tide beach trail, dodging tide pools and scanning the canopy for scarlet macaws. When you round the point, the cove appears—a half-moon of tawny sand no longer than a tennis court, backed by primary jungle.
Reading live conditions…
Live from Open-Meteo · sea surface temperature and wave data modelled at 1-km grid resolution for Playa Cocalito Norte. Numbers refresh at the hourly tick.
- Purity
- 0%
- Conditions
- 0%
- Crowd
- 0%
- Vibe
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The OnlyBeaches Index weighs four pillars against your chosen persona. Purity comes from water clarity and air-quality heuristics; Conditions from Open-Meteo waves, wind and temperatures; Crowd from historical patterns; Vibe from nearby events within 50 km. The score rebalances throughout the day.
You reach it by panga or on foot along a low-tide beach trail, dodging tide pools and scanning the canopy for scarlet macaws. When you round the point, the cove appears—a half-moon of tawny sand no longer than a tennis court, backed by primary jungle.
Photos
8 captures from Playa Cocalito Norte
About this beach
Where it is
Playa Cocalito Norte
Bahía Drake, Puntarenas, Costa Rica
8.6826°, -83.6734°
Top things to do
At Playa Cocalito Norte
Reef snorkeling
Turtles and parrotfish off the points
Wildlife photography
Capuchins and macaws in the canopy
Kayak arrival
Paddle from Drake village or neighbouring bay
Morning solitude
Beach to yourself until noon
Near this beach
Places, rentals, tours and events within walking and driving distance of Playa Cocalito Norte.
Questions people actually ask about Playa Cocalito Norte.
Is Playa Cocalito Norte safe for swimming?
As a tiny cove, Playa Cocalito Norte may offer more sheltered swimming conditions than open beaches, though conditions vary with tides and swells. The small size means limited space and potentially rocky areas, so watch your footing when entering the water. There are no lifeguards or safety services at this remote location. Swimming alone is not recommended. Snorkeling may be possible during calm conditions, but always assess water clarity and currents first. The cove's intimate nature makes it more suitable for wading and exploring than serious swimming.
What is the best time to visit Playa Cocalito Norte?
Visit during the dry season from December through April for the most reliable weather and easier access via coastal trails or boat. This period offers calmer seas and better conditions for appreciating the cove's scenic qualities. For fewer crowds, the shoulder months of late November or early May can be ideal, offering a balance of decent weather and solitude. Early morning visits provide the best lighting for photography and wildlife observation. Check tide schedules, as low tide may reveal more beach area and make exploration easier in this small cove.
